Missoula Valley, MT November 2018

Missoula Valley MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

NOVEMBER 2018

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THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE

CANDIED GINGER GINGERBREAD

THE BLOOD OF BUSINESS

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Chelsea Lyn Agro | Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com MANAGING EDITOR

Erika Fredrickson

Letters of gratitude.

BLESSED, FOR ME, IS THE FEELING OF GRATITUDE. Being grateful for something doesn’t have to mean that that something is perfect or ready, especially when it comes to loving ourselves or others. Gratitude is the white-knuckle work of being, despite everything.

This year I’m particularly grateful for stories. I’ve always been an avid reader, sometimes subjecting the person in closest proximity to my reading of a scene aloud. I did this with my favorite memoir a few months ago, reading approximately fifty pages aloud on a car ride home from a camping trip. No wonder my voice

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro | Lisa Firehammer | Shelby Humphreys Kristine Paulsen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amy Donovan Photography | Kristine Paulsen | Missoula Rural Fire District | Ashley Tintenger Photography | RMHC of Western Montana SALES SUPPORT MANAGER

Gene Peterson | Gene.Peterson@LifestylePubs.com SALES SUPPORT

Khai Tran | Khai.Tran@LifestylePubs.com

was hoarse! Thank you, dear listener.

But I did it for the joy of connectedness—bearing witness to the map someone has drawn of their life, whether it be real or made up, a map nonetheless. My laughing or crying along with the author was my way of saying me too.

There’s a certain brand of magic that happens when one is engrossed in a story. There’s that everlasting anticipation that is mirrored only by the great rapture of the present emotion. Reading is the microcosm of life’s balance: If I don’t get to see the next page, I want you to know that I fully lived and breathed each word, each line, each page, even if I fell apart or lost myself or saved myself along the way. I tried for something, every day.

The memoir I read, Still Points North by Leigh Newman, was not a new release. In fact, it had been a shelf ornament for years until geographical location suggested that I pick it up and begin. Several weeks after I finished the book, I remembered standing in line at the post office , book in hand, to send my copy to the author for a signature. It was a simple act that broke past technology in a beautiful, timeless way and it gave new life to the anticipation of response.

So, I addressed my envelope and sent the little book to Leigh. When it comes back to me, it’s not what she’ll have written for me inside, it’s knowing that she reached out to

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

touch someone through her work and her touch landed. I am grateful.

I hope you’re reminded of your own gratitude after spending some time with the stories within this issue.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Editor Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Fall foliage paints the perfect scene over the Rattlesnake Creek.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAMELA DUNN-PARRISH 4

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Missoula Valley areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2018

FEATURES 14 The Blood of Business Wagner's Home Furnishings hits the mark, thanks to the matriarch.

21 The Gift of Gratitude Three Missoulians share what gratitude is to them.

36 Candied Ginger Gingerbread Big Sky, Little Kitchen shows us

21 14

what's nice about spice in this flavorful fall recipe.

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36

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Locals Only

30 Inspired By 36 Culinary Creations 38 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Local’s Choice

GOOD TIMES

The Grateful Glass Western Cider made donations to the Montana Film Festival thanks to community members who purchased cider on special fundraising days. Emergent talent was celebrated by raising a glass, raising awareness, and raising money for the yearly event that enriches festival goers through the art and craft of independent narrative film. PHOTOGRAPHY AMY DONOVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

AROUND TOWN

ANGEL FLIGHT PILOTS NEEDED

performances projected on the big screen. Soprano

Are you a pilot who wants to give back? Angel Flight

Eva-Maria Westbroek sings as Giacomo Puccini's

West is looking for you! This nonprofit, volunteer-driven

gun-slinging heroine in this romantic epic of the

organization arranges free, non-emergency air travel

Wild West, with the glorious return of tenor Jonas

for children and adults who have serious medical

Kaufmann in the role of the outlaw she loves. Visit

conditions or other compelling needs. Currently, there

TheRoxyTheater.org to purchase tickets.

is a network of more than 1,400 pilots throughout the

AN EVENING WITH TEDDY

13 states who donate their aircraft, piloting skills, and all flying costs to help these families receive vital treatment

Let the greatest conservation story be told! Take

that might otherwise be inaccessible due to financial,

a step back in time and learn about the rich his-

medical, or geographical limitation. Since June, the need

tory of America's Conservation Legacy. "Illustorian"

for pilots has doubled. When you fly, how often you fly,

Steve Stark will tell and draw the story of Theodore

and with whom you fly are all up to you, including the

Roosevelt and the legacy behind our country's

right to cancel for any reason. If you'd like to learn more

conservation story, starting at the beginning, of

about this opportunity to offer your talent and time, visit

course, with the U.S. Forest Service. The ballroom

AngelFlightWest.org for more information.

at the Hilton Garden Inn will be transformed into a historic setting, complete with themed areas for

STAGE ON SCREEN

guests to learn about conservation history, such as

The Roxy Theater welcomes The Metropolitan

"Rangers and their Rides," and "This Land is Your

Opera, a western romance film by Marco Armiliato,

Land." Silent and live auction items will mirror those

on Monday, November 5, at 7 p.m. as part of the

themes, as will the appetizers. A no-host bar will be

ongoing series, Stage on Screen, which highlights

available and all proceeds from the Evening with

the

Teddy will benefit the National Museum of Forest

world's

greatest

contemporary

theatrical

Service History and our National Conservation CONTINUED >

Thanks to AbbVie, the Jane S. Heman Foundation and our local donors who shared their hearts to help us get to 82% of the necessary funds and break ground for a larger House in August!

See updates and join them in giving at: RoomInMyHeart.org Western Montana

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406.541.7646

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

|

rmhcwesternmontana.org

See the full menu at montanaclub.com

Join us this Thanksgiving for a traditional feast!

Served 11am to 7pm

AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N U ED)

Legacy and Education Center. This event will take

LADIES NIGHT OUT

place on Friday, November 2, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Save the date, ladies! Friday, November 16,

Please visit ForestServiceMuseum.org for tickets

at the Barn on Mullan is when and where like-

and more information.

minded ladies who care about wildlife and the

BE REPRESENTED BY RADIUS GALLERY

outdoors will meet for a fun night out. Games, raffles, auctions, laughter, and fun—what more

Are you an artist looking to be represented

could you ask for? Bring all of your friends and

at a local venue? Selecting artists over the

reserve a whole table. Funds raised will benefit

long term is a privilege and responsibility that

the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation whose mis-

Radius Gallery takes seriously. Supported artists

sion is to conserve, restore, and enhance natural

are given a beautiful space to exhibit and sell

habitats. This year's theme is "Reneck Woman"

their work, and Radius assists them by identi-

and kicks off at 6 p.m. Follow Missoula Ladies

fying and encouraging new opportunities, and

Night Out on Facebook for ticket information.

tending to their needs and ambitions no matter where they are in their artistic career. The gallery currently represents 15 artists and aspires to double that number over the course of this coming year. If this opportunity is appealing to

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you, please sign up for their newsletter, watch

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

for open calls, and submit your best work. Visit

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

RadiusGallery.com for more information and to

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

view current artists who are represented.

Us tab at MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

13

LOCALS ONLY

THE BLOOD OF BUSINESS WAGNER'S HOME FURNISHINGS HITS THE MARK, THANKS TO THE MATRIARCH

TRADITIONALLY, IN TERMS OF THE DEFINITION, A “PEG” IS USED FOR HOLDING THINGS TOGETHER, HANGING THINGS ON, OR MARKING A POSITION. But to the family at Wagner’s Home Furnishings, Peg was the name of the woman who started everything, taking hold of a too-big dream and barreling into an unknown future regarding her family and business.

What’s fun is, the definition is still mostly true—holding things together, marking a position.

Peg really did these things. Nearly eleven years after the grand opening of Wagner’s in 1953, Peg lost the love of her life, Bill, and was forced by circumstance to either plow ahead in the business they began together (with six children), or close up shop. The latter would’ve been the easier option but Peg marked her position with a life she’d be able to hang her hat on.

“These are my wife, Faith’s, paternal grandparents, Bill and Peg,” said Matt Meusey, co-owner of Wagner’s, as we stood together admiring an old

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO | PHOTOGRAPHY PAMELA DUNN-PARRISH 14

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

photo of the couple hanging on the heritage wall that sits almost at the heart of the showroom. “In the early sixties it was a different time, and being a female-owned business presented some unique challenges, especially in home furnishings, which was typically a male dominated industry,” said Matt.

He goes on to share how the family grew from there with Peg’s decision to hire two men (Ray Goeres and Bob Reiker) as owners to help run the business and, in a way, help run her family. The photos on the wall share the stories of these men and their own families, and how the children of those families and Peg’s family grew up around the Wagner name like roots taking hold.

Our walk around the showroom continued as Matt spoke about how indebted he is to the man who worked right below where we stood—Dale, the upholsterer. He’s the son to second generation owners Bob and Evelyn and unswerving in his talent of a dying

breed. Wagner’s best kept secret? Maybe. Dale’s workshop is a tranquil, bright space with spools of all different types of material—a Candyland for making old things new again.

“It’s usually about three to four months,” said Dale, referring to the amount of time he’s typically committed, thanks to a long list of clients who pursue his fine handiwork. The pieces that are brought in for Dale to restore aren’t necessarily purchases made from Wagner’s. They’re heirloom pieces, hand-me-downs, and favorites that are in need of cosmetic or functional makeovers, and done so with precision.

Making his way back to the showroom, Matt described the services that are offered at Wagner’s with genuine pride, and not of the boastful kind. The in-home design service is arguably CONTINUED >

Faith & Matt Meusey November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

15

LOCALS ONLY

(CON TI N U ED)

their best service. It allows the workers to use their expertise to help the client make the most appropriate decision for a particular piece, right down to its fabric and color.

Matt spoke about the products—Stickley, Flexsteel, American Leather—in a way that gave another respectful nod to family.

Business and family are not parallels here, they are two roads that have always intersected and merged, becoming one path.

“One of the greatest things that the ownership did in the second generation was, when the economy turned—’07, ’08, ’09—they made a conscious effort and even bigger commitment to quality when everyone else chased cheaper to survive,” said Matt. “The human-to-human element and helping [the

client] make the best decisions for them and their home—that’s really allowed us the room to grow and prosper.”

Faith, Peg’s granddaughter, was emotional when saying her grandmother’s name aloud, the bittersweet taste of Peg’s early sacrifice clearly visible in her eyes.

“My grandma had such a classy way of setting an example.

She was full of grace and gentle, yet firm and not afraid of hard work. She treated everyone with equal respect and is one my greatest mentors,” said Faith. “Customers still come in and talk about how they bought their first sofa from [Peg], or we’ve had

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

Bill & Peg Wagner

John & Joan Wagner

Peg & Bill with their children

Mike & Margaret Wagner

Janice Wagner Lopach

my grandmother’s friends bring their granddaughters in to buy their first piece of furniture. There is something very special about that.”

She lit up when describing her favorite moments at Wagner’s—seeing orders come off the truck.

“I’m able to see a piece of furniture and know who ordered it, because it’s so them…Furniture in your home is such a personal part of your life,” said Faith. “These pieces are the witnesses to their everyday life.”

WAGNER’S HOME FURNISHINGS Stop in to meet the family or do some hunting for the inside of your home 916 SW Higgins Ave 406.728.3214

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THEGIFT OF GRATITUDE THREE MISSOULIANS SHARE WHAT GRATITUDE IS TO THEM

HOME. Health. Family. These are the bedrock gifts to which we drill down this time of year. Whether we’re sharing food and conversation around our Thanksgiving table or struggling through some hard times, gratitude remains. So, how does that work exactly? Three Missoulians pry open their gratitude so we can see what it’s made of:

ARTICLE SHELBY HUMPHREYS PHOTOGRAPHY PAMELA DUNN-PARRISH CONTINUED >

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE

(CON TI N U ED)

JEFF VALENTINE

PROFES SIONAL COUNSELOR A N D L O N G -T I M E P A S T O R 22

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

GRATITUDE IS SPIRITUAL

“Now my voice is as clear as it’s been in 20

Jeff Valentine, professional counselor and long-

years,” said Jeff. “Gratitude has been a big part of

time pastor, has witnessed gratitude through his

that. And, there’s all kinds of science that shows

service and in the book that inspires his faith.

that when people are grateful or thankful, then

“In Romans, Chapter 1, we see how God has a

they’re healthier.”

desire for us to thrive, to flourish like a flower in full

As healthy as his voice sounds today, Jeff is care-

bloom. Gratitude is part of that,” said Jeff. Jeff has

ful not to sugar-coat the darker shades of struggle.

watched those words do some heavy lifting, especially when things don’t look so flowery.

“The idea that we should just be happy, that’s not real,” he said. “It’s not a matter of being happy. It’s

“Everyone has a story, and there’s at least one

giving equal time to what we can be thankful for, as

or two chapters that are pretty rough. It’s easy to

well as how we feel about our loss. We reckon with

focus on what we’ve lost, but that can get us stuck.”

what we’ve lost and what God has given to us. We

Jeff understands feeling stuck. In 1997, he under-

remember the idea that God has designed us to

went brain surgery. The procedure ended up paralyzing his vocal chords.

“I sounded like Marlon Brando,” he joked. “Here I

thrive. Gratitude is part of what makes that work.”

CONTINUED >

was: I felt called to be a preacher, and my voice was the very thing I needed. I thought, ‘Why God?’” Over time, though, those ironic circumstances matured into sage advice.

“We need to see what we have and find a way to express it, to say ‘This is what I have, not just what I lost’…It’s important to recognize it and audibly express it, however we can.” Missoulians who’ve attended Missoula Alliance Church have witnessed that advice in action.

“WE NEED TO SEE WHAT WE HAVE AND FIND A WAY TO EXPRESS IT, TO SAY ‘THIS IS WHAT I HAVE, NOT JUST WHAT I LOST’”

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE

(CON TI N U ED)

GRATITUDE IS PRACTICAL If gratitude helps us thrive, then Andy Smetanka

“You see those sun pots dripping across the

has proven that principle during his 28 years in the

film and it’s easy to think those were the golden

Missoula arts scene. As a UM student, local writer,

years, but they had their challenges and frustra-

and film producer, Andy understands both the gifts

tions, just like we do.”

and the grit that a Missoula lifestyle requires.

So, how does Andy turn frustration into gratitude?

“You have to orchestrate Missoula and make

“You have to learn to be nostalgic for the pres-

it play for you,” he said. “It’s tough to try to make

ent,” he said “Even if you have to write a moment

a living with art, but at least you can do it here.

on your hand, just so you can know how amazing it

You’re allowed to thrive here.” For anyone familiar

is to be here. That can be cold comfort when you’re

with Andy’s entertaining personality and provoca-

having a hard time, but we have to think of the

tive work, it’s hard to discern whether Andy loves

future that we’re squirreling away for.”

Missoula or Missoula loves Andy.

Andy has always found a way to contribute to his community. Generosity, mixed with gratitude, has earned him some social capital among the locals.

For Andy, that future includes a big family bustling in a bungalow on Missoula’s Northside.

“There’s kids coming and going all the time,” he said. “Someone’s always yelling from another room,

“I’ll take my kids to the farmers market and

‘Dad, do we have any pickles?’ I have that big, loud

trade some cider for cheese or a sausage sand-

family and that’s what I always wanted. My family is

wich,” Andy said. “These connections feel like

really where my life is at now. There’s those sublime

I’m plugged into a safety net. Although, I haven’t

moments and it seems to have all worked out.”

figured out a way to succeed at bartering for my mortgage payment yet.”

A keen sense of place makes Andy sympathetic

CONTINUED >

to the trades Missoula has made as it grows from mountain town to regional mecca. From new construction to old buildings, he understands our collective strain to balance loss with gratitude.

“When horrible architecture goes up, it’s hard not to take that like a knife to the gut,” he said. “But, then there’s The Wilma. It seemed headed for that rundown lair for the tribal crowd of raging metal fans. Now, it’s purpose-built to house rock shows. I couldn’t go in for a while. When I finally did, though, it was like walking into a cathedral.”

So, what does Andy think about the loss of that historical pipe organ?

“Ah! The pipe organ!” he said. “These are emblematic things that we haven’t thought of for years. Then, when someone wants to get rid of it, we’re like, ‘Wait!’”

Andy’s current project magnifies that tension between nostalgia and progress.

“It’s a short documentary featuring Missoula from the glacial lake days through the 20th century, told through vintage home movies,” Andy said. “I’m trying to capture those Missoula feelings and phenomena.” Reviewing thousands of feet of footage has given Andy a lens on how we tend to splice together a new reality from buttery memories.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

ANDY SMETANKA

U M S T U D E N T, L O C A L WRITER, AND FILM PRODUCER

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

25

THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE

(CON TI N U ED)

ARWEN KITTELSON-ALDRED MUSICIAN AND S O U N D B AT H INSTRUCTOR

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

GRATITUDE IS MEDICINAL “Things just work better with gratitude,” said

Now, Arwen draws others to that special place

Arwen Kittelson-Aldred, a musician and sound

through her sound journeys, which she performs

bath instructor. Arwen understands the need for

in area yoga and meditation studios. Sharing her

a daily dose of gratitude. “Why not set yourself up

talent has allowed Arwen’s gifts to reverberate

for success,” she asked, “instead of not having the

back to her, helping to heal her loss.

emotional bandwidth to handle things that are out of your control?”

That’s hard-earned wisdom for Arwen. At age 19, she lost her sister, Eleanore.

“It was unexpected and very traumatizing,” she

“I’m playing instruments that my deaf sister would’ve adored,” she said. “There’s nothing like watching a gong being played, especially for someone like her, whose eyes can pick up on every sound that’s vibrating through it.”

said. “I was 26 before I could talk about her without

Those sounds fill the room when Arwen plays,

shaking.” Through those difficult years, however,

just as gratitude fills her words when she talks of

the music of her childhood helped anchor Arwen to

her own healing.

her truth. She credits her parents for that strength.

“I volunteered for six weeks at an ashram,”

“I wouldn’t be the musician I am today if it wasn’t

she said. “Whenever we talked about really

for my parents,” Arwen said. “When I was a kid, they

hard things, they’d always say, ‘Wahe Guru.’

said, ‘You are going to study music for seven years,

It means, ‘The awesomeness of God, the uni-

but you get to choose which instrument.’” Arwen

verse, and the primal energy.’ It was a reminder

chose the piano and studied classical music.

to be grateful for everything.”

That musical foundation gave Arwen a head start on her path to healing.

Still, Arwen understands how tricky that can be.

“It’s easy to go into spiritual bypass mode and

“I took a meditation class, so I could learn some

just say, ‘I’m thankful.’ You don’t magically become

tools to keep from freaking out,” she said. “Then I

grateful,” she said. “It’s that medicine, which can

found yoga. In 2015, I completed Kundalini Yoga

initially taste really bitter, but if you stay with it,

training, which introduced me to a whole new style

after a while, you don’t notice the bitterness.”

of music.” Not long afterward, Arwen discovered the sounds that would help her heal.

“In 2016, there was a training for the Himalayan singing bowls,” she said. “I thought ‘Why not?’ I fell in love.” Then, Arwen stretched her talents even more to incorporate the gong.

“I taught a six-month Kundalini series that required the sound of the gong for every session. It was possible to practice with a recording of gong music. But, I soundtrack my life, so I asked myself, ‘Am I the kind of person who uses a recording?’”

Arwen chuckles at herself in answer. “No. I’m the person who learns the gong and buys my own.”

Today, most Missoulians know her as a masterful conductor of gongs and singing bowls.

“When I played classically, the high points were always the performances,” Arwen said. “I could bypass all my thinking and just let it come through me. The first time I played the bowls, it was like going to that place.”

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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BREAKFAST & BRUNCH • SANDWICHES • BURGERS

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November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

29

INSPIRED BY

The Room in Your Heart 30

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

BREAKING GROUND AT RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE BUILDS A BIGGER HEART

ARTICLE LISA FIREHAMMER PHOTOGRAPHY RMHC OF WESTERN MONTANA AND ASHLEY TINTENGER PHOTOGRAPHY CONTINUED >

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

31

INSPIRED BY

(CON TI N U ED)

A RED HEART IS AT THE CENTER OF THE LOGO FOR THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN OF THE PLANNED EXPANSION AT RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF WESTERN MONTANA.

Their

mission?

To

keep families with sick

helped the family fulfill that promise, by offering rest, meals, and support.

children together and

Amy noted that many families, especially in rural

close to the medical care

states like Montana, have to travel long distances to

they need when they

far-away medical facilities in unfamiliar communi-

need it most. The expan-

ties to get treatment for their children. The Ronald

sion behind the $2.7

McDonald House can offer families a sense of sta-

million dollar campaign

bility, allowing them space to make decisions about

will

their children’s medical care.

double

the

size

of the current Ronald McDonald

House

by

“It’s such an important service to families, really, when everything else is falling apart,” she said.

adding eight more fam-

Tate passed away suddenly in 2009 at the age of

ily suites and updating

7. In 2015, Amy accepted the position of CEO at the

current spaces to better

Ronald McDonald House in Missoula.

serve the families who stay there.

“I thought, ‘what better opportunity for me to honor my nephew every day in what I do,’” said Amy.

What’s special, though,

She keeps a photo of Tate in her office for inspi-

like the core of any mean-

ration. In August, her office also contained several

ingful project, is the heart. Local Chief Executive Officer Amy

shovels and hard hats from a groundbreaking event

Peterson chose the image of a heart to represent the commu-

in celebration of raising 82 percent of the $2.7 million

nity and support that people find within the walls of the Ronald

goal, all thanks to AbbVie, a national biopharma-

McDonald House.

ceutical company who gifted nearly $1 million to the

The heart also serves as a memorial to Amy’s nephew, Tate, who crayoned a similar heart while he was receiving treatment

House in Missoula, The Jane S. Heman Foundation, and local donors who shared their hearts.

for Neuroblastoma at the Denver Children’s Hospital about 10

“That will make a huge difference,” Amy said,

years ago. At that time, Amy’s siblings and parents took turns

noting that in 2017 the facility had to turn away 72

staying with Tate and his mom and dad, thanks to the Ronald

families due to lack of room.

McDonald House in Denver.

The house in Missoula currently has eight rooms

“We think he was sharing his heart with us,” Amy said.

with comfortable beds, a large kitchen where fam-

“That’s what donors do when they give to this organization,

ilies can enjoy home-cooked meals provided by

they share their hearts.”

volunteers, a shared family room, laundry facilities,

During Tate’s 14-month stint of chemotherapy and radiation, members of his family traveled from Eastern Montana to Colorado to be with him.

and a play area. The city’s trail system, a park, and medical facilities are nearby.

“But greater than those amenities is the sense of

“We made a promise as a family that he would never be

community and compassion families find with each

alone,” Amy said. The Ronald McDonald House Charities

other and from the staff and volunteers…you’re living

CONTINUED >

32

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

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November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

33

INSPIRED BY

(CON TI N U ED)

Planned expansion

with strangers who quickly become family,” said Amy.

Intensive Care Unit babies in Missoula to sup-

“You sit down for a meal with another family and they can

port one another.

read your heart without you having to say a word. That’s at the core of what Ronald McDonald House does.”

In addition, Amy said Aiden’s sister, Laila, started her own company, Donation Cooperation

Families stay in the Missoula facility for an average

Stands Incorporated, LLC, selling lemonade to

of 17 days, at a suggested daily rate of $25. No one is

raise money for RMHC of Western Montana.

turned away for inability to pay.

Initially, Laila raised “a Ziploc bag full” of $140

Ronald McDonald House Charities has headquar-

until a donor caught wind of her efforts on social

ters in Chicago and serves families worldwide, but each

media and donated funds for her dad to build her

house tailors its programming based on local needs.

a professional-looking lemonade stand, where

As an example, the Super Siblings Program in

she eventually raised more than $1,300.

Missoula offers activities and support for siblings of

“As a locally governed nonprofit, we rely on

the hospitalized child. “These kids may feel confused

the support of the entire greater community. 100

or scared about their sibling’s illness,” Amy said. “And

percent of the funds donated to RMHC of Western

they may feel lonely as their parents’ attention is pulled

Montana stay right here in Missoula,” noted Amy.

to the child who is sick.” She developed the Missoula

“Thanks to the regular and generous support of

program as a result of being with her nieces during her

many, we are able to serve hundreds of Montana

nephew’s illness.

families every year.”

Donations to RMHC of Western Montana also reflect the character of the local community. The Missoula House is able to offer families passes to SpectrUM Discovery Area, A Carousel for Missoula, and The Missoula Insectarium just to name a few. “These gestures make an incredible difference,” said Amy. Like Amy, other families often “repay” the support they’ve received from the Ronald McDonald House by donating and volunteering or fundraising for their local RMHC once the child’s medical treatment ends.

As an example, Amy shares a story of a local family whose child, Aiden, was born prematurely and received care for about eight months at Seattle Children’s Hospital. When the family returned home, Aiden’s mom, Magda, started “NICU Nights” as a way for current and former families of Neonatal 34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

Support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Montana

» Volunteer: RMHC volunteers stuff envelopes, greet families, make cookies, do light cleaning, and many other helpful tasks.

» Serve: Get a group of friends or co-workers together and make a home-cooked meal for families staying at the House through the “Meals that Heals” program.

» Donate: RMHCWesternMontana.org/Our-Wish-List Gifts are tax-deductible.

Ronald McDonald House 3003 Fort Missoula Road 406.541.7646

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November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

35

CULINARY CREATIONS

CANDIED GINGER GINGERBREAD BIG SKY, LITTLE KITCHEN SHOWS US WHAT'S NICE ABOUT SPICE IN THIS FLAVORFUL FALL RECIPE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTINE PAULSEN

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN A BIT SPICY. Sure, sugar is sweet and it’d be downright sacrilegious to not have some decadent pie on a tow line behind a savory meal, but spice—particularly ginger—is nostalgic.

When I was small, my grandmother would hand me slices of ginger as a treat, and we’d share laughs over how spicy it was. Its taste brings me right back to that kitchen—a paved path right back to the warmth of that childhood memory.

This gingerbread recipe is an ode to yesteryear, following the old-fashioned, cake-type gingerbread, not a rendition of the popular cookie.

This favorite recipe has stayed with me for years for a few reasons but mainly because it replaces most of the oil with applesauce, and that candied ginger adds a fruity, textured bite to the crumb of the cake. I’ve shared it at Thanksgiving and folks seem to love it as an alternative or in addition to the traditional spread of pies that are typically served. It’s easy to whip up and it invites that oh-so-satisfying blend of autumn aromas.

36

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

CANDIED GINGER GINGERBREAD INGREDIENTS + 11.25 ounces all purpose flour (about 2 1/2 cups) + 2 teaspoons baking soda + 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger + 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon + 1/2 teaspoon salt + 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves + 1/2 cup packed brown sugar + 1/4 cup canola oil + 1 large egg + 2/3 cup molasses + 4 ounces unsweetened applesauce + 1/2 cup nonfat or low-fat buttermilk + 2 tablespoons candied ginger, diced (a couple large pieces), and more if using for garnish

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Weigh or gently spoon flour into measuring cups and level with a knife. Combine flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground cloves in a bowl, stirring well. Combine sugar, oil, and egg in a large bowl, beat thoroughly at medium speed until combined either by hand or with a mixer. Stir in molasses and applesauce. Add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately to egg mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Toss diced ginger in a small amount of flour. Fold pieces into the batter. Add batter to an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 45 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in a pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.

Cut into squares. To garnish, top squares with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and, optionally, a large piece of candied ginger.

November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

37

N OV E M B E R

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1 EPIC PITCH COMPETITION Gilkey Building, University of Montana

The Blackstone LaunchPad at the University of Montana

Bowl, so be sure to dress up as your favorite Hollywood star. Call Kelley at 406.721.2380 for more information.

5

and the UM College of Business will host the annual fall

BUGS AND BEERS FLY TYING WORKSHOP

EPIC Pitch Competition in search of three victorious win-

Imagine Nation Brewing

ners: overall ($1,500), most exciting startup idea ($500), and

Tie flies with the folks from IFlyFishMontana and The Missoulian

most compelling live presentation ($500). This opportunity

Angler. Tying materials will be provided to the first 12 people who

is for students to present exciting ideas for new businesses

join. Food will be provided and beer will be available. Each fly ty-

or social entrepreneurship ventures.

ing event features a local conservation organization to which raffle

3 OPEN FIGURE DRAWING

proceeds will be donated. Admission is free.

10

Missoula Art Museum

VINTAGE CHRISTMAS MARKET

Every Saturday MAM hosts Open Figure Drawing day.

Zootown Church

Draw from a live model in an independent drawing studio

Hosted by the Prairie Sisters, the Vintage Christmas Market prom-

environment. Some supplies are available for use. Ages 18

ises vintage, rustic, and handmade farmhouse treasures for your

and over are welcome to this non-instructed weekly class.

home or as a gift.

$10 for admission, $8 for MAM members.

3 HOLLYWOOD BOWL FOR KIDS

15 MOMEDY: THE ENCORE The Roxy Theater

Westside Lanes & Fun Center

Staged like stand-up comedy, MOMedy is the product of several grit-

The Bowl for Kids' Sake is back and it's time to bowl! Grab

ty gals who will share 10- to 15-minute stories from their pregnancy,

your teams and get to fundraising for Big Brothers Big

birth, and postpartum journeys. These mamas spent the first part of

Sisters of Missoula. There will be prizes, games, food, and

this year excavating their true, messy, heartening, devastating, hilari-

much more. The theme for this year's event is Hollywood

ous stories and are ready to reveal the real, raw, and ridiculous.

CONTINUED >

38

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

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17 TEACHER WORKSHOP: PRIMARY SOURCES IN THE CLASSROOM The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

Calling all teachers! Primary sources: We know we should be using them in the classroom, but where do we find them? How should you use them? How can you make them relevant? Find these answers and more by working through a couple of activities that you can use in your classroom. Professional development credit will be available. Registration fee is $10. Contact Kristjana at 406.258.3473 for information on signing up.

19 DANCING IN JAFFA (ISRAEL) The Roxy Theater

Global and Cultural Affairs of the Arts Missoula, in collaboration with the Roxy Theater, Soft Landing, and the International Rescue Committee invite you to the opening premiere of a new global film series titled World View, Cultures in Motion.

22 making you smile "The staff at Montana Dental Arts is friendly, helpful and efficient. They take the time to answer questions and provide solutions.

Dr. Wilcox is thorough in examinations and communicates in a way the patient can understand. The staff is equally as thoughtful with younger patients and know how to set them at ease. I would recommend everyone to make an appointment with them now!!"

8K TURKEY DAY McCormick Park

Need to exercise before that big Thanksgiving Day meal? Here's your chance. The Turkey Day 8K and 3K Family Fun Run courses travel along the Riverfront and Milwaukee Trails with short distances on a few Missoula city streets. Tickets are available through RunWildMissoula.org.

23 HOLIDAY FULL MOON SOUND BATH

Providing excellent family, cosmetic & implant dentistry

The Learning Center at the Red Willow

Call Today & Schedule your appointment with

$20. The holiday season is a time of renewal but can

Dr. David Wilcox (406) 728-6068 MontanaDentalArts.com 1920 South Russell Street

40

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

Instructed by Arwen Kittleson-Aldred, this "Gratitude and Sound" themed workshop will be 1.5 hours for also bring stress. You're invited to join Arwen for the respite of sound, Reiki, and special holiday bonuses to help you release anything that may be keeping you from enjoying the holidays.

N OV E M B E R

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

N OV E M B E R

Plan for the Westside Lane Halloween Party! WATCH THE 118TH BRAWL OF THE WILD GRIZ-CAT GAME AT THE BOWLDOG LOUNGE!!

36 Lanes of bowling.

THUNDER ALLEY BOWLING Every Friday, Saturday and Monday Enjoy the Lights, 10 Foot Video Screens, Music Videos!

$1.25 Bowling Specials Every Sunday, Monday and Wednesdays Starting at 9PM, Per Person, Per Game.

Plus $2.00 Tuesdays!

The BOWLDOG LOUNGE has Karaoke by Solid Sound Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and the 1st and 2nd Saturday of Every Month! PLUS a DJ by RMF Entertainment on Saturdays!

Check out the Full Service Snack Bar with Home Made Soups and Freshly Made Pizzas to Order!

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Call now to learn more | 406.721.5600 November 2018 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

41

LOCAL’S CHOICE

THE FIREFIGHTERS AT MISSOULA RURAL FIRE DISTRICT KNOW A THING OR TWO ABOUT COMING TOGETHER AS A TEAM TO PERFORM AN IMPORTANT DEED. When there's a fire, they rush in. But earlier this year, one of those fires looked like a friend in need.

Jack Berry, son of Cooper and Kate Berry of Missoula, was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and was sent to Boston Children's Hospital to undergo surgery to remove the tumor that formed inside his femur and complete several months of chemotherapy. Kory Burgess, fellow firefighter to Cooper, organized a head-shaving event in an effort to show Jack that all of his "uncles" at the fire department were standing

Being BravE,Going Bald

beside him in his battle with cancer.

MISSOULA RURAL FIRE DISTRICT SHAVES THEIR HEADS FOR A GOOD CAUSE

heads in support of him and his battle," said Kory. "Jack is a very

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO | PHOTOGRAPHY MISSOULA RURAL FIRE DISTRICT 42

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2018

"I rallied as many of the firefighters as I could to gather at the fire station the morning of August 20, Jack's 11th birthday, to shave our active young man and loves to play hockey, ride mountain bikes, run, and play guitar...[Jack and his family] still have a very long road ahead of them, but they are taking the journey one day at a time and marching forward until Jack wins his battle."

Come home soon, Jack. Missoula misses you!

I would recommend Dr. Hardy to anyone. He’s a caring surgeon who will make sure that you feel comfortable and he’ll do whatever it takes to treat your problem. I could travel thousands of miles and would not find anybody who can do it better that he could.

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- Sydney, diagnosed with Melanoma Skin Cancer

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